EMG 81-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
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- Brand new in original box
- Full EMG manufacturer's warranty
- Free shipping in the continental US
In stock
- SKU
- EMG4475
Description
EMG 81-8H 8-String Active Humbucker Pickup in Black Chrome
The EMG 81-8H is a high-output active humbucker engineered for extended-range 8-string instruments, delivering aggressive articulation and tight low-end definition. This ceramic magnet design cuts through dense tunings with clarity and punch, making it the primary choice for metal and progressive recording sessions. The sleek Black Chrome finish integrates seamlessly into modern instrument aesthetics while the active electronics ensure consistent output regardless of cable length or impedance variations—critical for reliable tracking and mixing compatibility.
Recording Tone & Output Performance
With a resonant frequency of 1.45 kHz and output voltage of 4.50 V on strum, this pickup delivers focused midrange articulation and controlled sustain across all eight strings, translating to clear, defined takes in the DAW. The ceramic magnet with close aperture coils minimizes muddiness in extended tunings while maintaining definition in dense mix contexts, and the -107 dBV noise floor at 60 Hz keeps background hum negligible—essential for clean overdubs and layered tracking in high-gain sessions.
Active Electronics & Studio Workflow
The active circuit operates efficiently on a 9V battery supply with 80 microamps current draw, yielding approximately 3000 hours of battery life per charge—eliminating mid-session power concerns during long recording days. The included Quik-Connect cable, output jack, battery clip, and volume/sound knob set streamline setup and teardown between sessions, while the 10 kΩ output impedance pairs cleanly with modern preamps, audio interfaces, and amp modeling chains used in professional home studios.
Key Features
- Ceramic magnet construction with close aperture coils
- Active humbucker design for 8-string instruments
- Output voltage: 4.50 V (strum), 2.00 V (single string)
- Resonant frequency: 1.45 kHz
- Output noise: -107 dBV at 60 Hz
- Output impedance: 10 kΩ
- Battery life: 3000 hours @ 9V, 80 microamps current
- Maximum supply voltage: 27 V DC
- Dimensions: 38.1 × 101.6 mm
- Includes Quik-Connect cable, volume/sound knob set, output jack, battery clip, screws, and springs
- Black Chrome finish
The EMG 81-8H combines low-noise active electronics with aggressive ceramic response, making it a reliable core component for serious 8-string recording and production work.
More Information
| Condition | New |
|---|
Reviews
At a Glance
The EMG 81-8H brings aggressive, articulate high-output performance to 8-string recording sessions, with a tight low end and focused 1.45 kHz resonance that sits cleanly in dense mixes without muddiness. Its active electronics guarantee consistent output across cable runs and preamp chains, while the -107 dBV noise floor keeps hum absent even in high-gain overdub and layering work. Ideal for metal and progressive tracking where extended-range clarity and punch are non-negotiable.
Who This Is For
Great for
- ✓ Metal
- ✓ Progressive
- ✓ Drop Tunings
- ✓ Extended Range
Not the best pick for
- – Jazz
- – Blues
- – Folk
Skill level: Intermediate · Advanced · Professional
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the box?
The EMG 81-8H ships with a Quik-Connect cable, output jack, battery clip, 9V battery connector, volume and sound control knob set, mounting screws, and springs. Installation requires a standard 9V battery, which delivers approximately 3000 hours of runtime.
How does this compare to passive 8-string pickups?
The active circuit maintains consistent output regardless of cable length or preamp impedance, eliminating level drops common to passive designs. Active electronics also deliver lower noise floor (-107 dBV at 60 Hz) and higher output voltage (4.50 V on strum) for tighter, punchier response in high-gain settings.
Is this pickup suitable for blues or jazz?
No; the EMG 81-8H is engineered specifically for metal, progressive, and drop-tuning applications with aggressive voicing and high output. Its tight, articulate character prioritizes clarity and attack over the dynamic warmth and nuance required for blues or jazz.
How long does the battery last, and what are the voltage specs?
A standard 9V battery supplies approximately 3000 hours of continuous playback at 80 microamps current draw. The pickup can operate safely at voltages up to 27V DC, giving flexibility with stacked or higher-voltage battery configurations.
Will this pickup fit my 8-string guitar?
The EMG 81-8H dimensions are 38.1 × 101.6 mm and feature standard bridge and neck spacing for modern 8-string instruments. Confirm your guitar's pickup cavity dimensions match these specs before purchase; most contemporary 8-string designs accommodate this size.
Do I pay sales tax on this order?
We collect sales tax only on orders shipped to California. Orders shipped to any other US state are charged $0 sales tax at checkout when you buy direct from our website. On this item that is roughly $10 less out the door than the same listed price at a national retailer or on a marketplace. Marketplaces such as eBay, Reverb and Amazon collect sales tax in nearly every state as marketplace facilitators no matter who the seller is, so the same item at the same price costs less bought direct. Free US shipping and 30-day returns are included. Some states ask buyers to self-report use tax on out-of-state purchases.
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